Overview & Reviews

Launched in 2002 and retired just a couple of years later, the Isuzu Axiom came by its name in a thoughtful and democratic way. Its moniker wasn't the result of myriad brainstorming sessions by a cadre of marketing types locked away in some remote steel tower. Rather, Isuzu held a contest to see who could come up with the best name. "Axiom" was picked by a citizen of Redmond, Washington, who got a brand-new Isuzu Axiom for his efforts.

Unfortunately, this degree of thoughtfulness was not reflected in the Axiom's design and overall quality. The Axiom wasn't as new as it should have been: The SUV shared an aged platform with its sibling, the Rodeo. Ergonomics within its cabin were poor; many controls were non-intuitive and illogically placed. Legroom was cramped for those riding in back. And the Axiom's sluggish steering and non-existent road feel didn't exactly enhance its fun-to-drive quotient.

Still, this Isuzu had its assets. A chiseled chin and crossover-like styling gave the vehicle some visual distinctiveness, and its V6 was up for most of the tasks thrown its way. The Axiom's available four-wheel-drive system was also fairly sophisticated. But on the whole, the Axiom was lacking in too many areas. In our editors' ratings, the Axiom earned a "not recommended" score in all the key areas: dynamics, comfort, design/build quality and function. If you're shopping for a used SUV, you would be better served by pretty much any of the Axiom's competitors.

Most Recent Isuzu Axiom

The Axiom was a midsize SUV that was available in just one generation lasting from 2002-'04. There were two trims: base and XS. Base models offered standard features like full power accessories, air-conditioning, keyless entry, a CD changer and a trip computer. XS models stirred in the sugar by way of amenities like foglights, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The options list on base models included leather seats, a power moonroof and a trailer hitch; on XS models, a trailer hitch was initially the sole available option.

It was on the market for just a brief spell, but the Isuzu Axiom still witnessed a few changes. In 2003, the base trim was renamed the S. A CD changer was dropped from the standard features list on S models, instead becoming available as an option; also, chrome wheels and a roof rack were added to the options list for XS models. In 2004, the S model saw further erosion to its standard features list with the deletion of its cassette player. The SUV's speaker count also dropped from eight to six. All Axioms got a new chrome finish on the grille; the optional alloy wheels on the XS also got spruced up with a new chrome finish.

Onboard all Axioms was Isuzu's Intelligent Suspension Control, which utilized sensors to track vehicle variables like speed, engine rpm and braking. These sensors continually adjusted the Axiom's shock valving to match ride and handling to real-time driving conditions. Also, the system allowed drivers to choose between Sport and Comfort suspension modes. In practice, this setup wasn't nearly as impressive as it sounds. In Comfort mode, the Isuzu Axiom exhibited an unacceptable degree of roll and wallow. Selecting Sport mode brought some relief, but we were still disappointed with this area of the SUV's performance.

Isuzu's hauler was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 good for 230 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque; the engine was a retuned version of the V6 that motivated the Isuzu Trooper. In 2004, the Axiom's engine benefited from new gasoline "direct injection" technology that served to boost hp to 250 and torque to 246 lb-ft. Two- or four-wheel drive models were offered.

Four-wheel-drive Axioms came with Isuzu's "Torque on Demand" feature. Operated via a dash-mounted twist knob, this system utilized sensors to gauge throttle position and axle speeds, with the aim of predicting wheelspin so power could be transferred to the front wheels in an idealized fashion.

User Reviews:

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  Axiom - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Ryan Wells - July 2 - 6:03 pm

  This vehicle is a good bargain. It does everything well. Power is great and gas mileage has shocked me. Hope we have no mechanical problems!!!

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  A pleasure to drive - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By TRB - June 28 - 10:00 am

  The more I drive it, the more I like it. Extremely responsive in traffic.

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  02 Axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By cericson - June 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because, with the rebate, it was a great value. I have been very surprised at how much fun it is to drive. It is exactly the right size and completely trouble free.

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  Omaha Bound Axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By wallyworld68 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed this car very much but plan to get rid of it opting for a similar design with better gas mileage.

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  Wise Trade - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By CP-Shelly - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the 2002 Axiom and I am extremely pleased with my decision. The acceleration is much quicker and the ride is far smoother. I fill my tank more often but the tank is smaller and takes about $7.00 less to fill it up. While the drive and interior really peaked my interest the 10 year/120,000 mile powertrain warranty sold me without a doubt.

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  Mixed Emotions.... - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By brantm21 - May 6 - 10:12 pm

  Had this car for a family vehicle. It was reliable, yes. And it was comfortable, yes. Its hard to put into words but it was just awkward to drive. I did like the ability to stiffen the suspension but it still handled horribly. I loved the interior personally. The sunroof was a nice touch. Never had a problem with it mechanically. Drove it probably 15k Highway miles all over this beautiful USA country.

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  My first SUV now I am in heaven - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By P Ray - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I thought SUVs were only for the rich. I just bought a Isuzu Axiom and I need a degree to learn all it does. It is classy, sporty and handles great. I used to have a Toyota Tacoma and the seats were important to me as if it isnt comfortable I am not going to want to stay in it for long and as most Southern California people know we do a lot of driving. It handles great, and I always know where I am going as it has the compus on the screen and temperture controlls. My sun glasses never get lost now because it is like a well orgainzed machine, with something for everone. Speaking for someone that gets hot flashes the tempurture controls are so great becau

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  Power and Handling are Great - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By MidwesternBill - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Lots of power and great handling. Outperforms the other small/midsize suvs I drove. Youll like this if you want more of a rugged truck feel, yet the handling and cornering are tight. Very stable on turns. Doesnt feel like a sedan. If you want that buy a Buick Rendevous (poor handling and a dog). A tip if you think the styling is a bit unusual: add a roof rack, rear spoiler (wing) and running boards. Looks awesome. Surf the web for the rear wing. Mine is all black--looks great with the chrome trim! Next thing I might add are chrome wheels--wow!

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  Edmunds too tough, I like it! - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By jeff - March 9 - 12:23 am

  Bought this 04 Axiom used with 48,000 miles. The seats are low compared to a Suzuki Grand Vitara it replaced but I got used to it. This vehicle flies! Power is fantastic, gas mileage is 13 mpg. Looks alone are a home run. I personally like the dash but does have a lot to it. You just have to get used to it. My only complaint would be the rubber stripping around the doors it seems to move or come out of its fasteners and not fit as well as Im sure as when it was new. I have had it 4 months or so and really like it.

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  Ive had no problems - it turns heads - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By Mpfeltr - March 7 - 10:00 am

  It always seems funny to me where reviews come from. Every veh Ive seemed to own doesnt make it what Reviews state as top 10. Perhaps I like to be different. Anyway pricewise my axiom is middle of the road. Appeal wise it turns head, and for me Im glad it not a clone seen everywhere. Ive had not a single problem with it and I now have 20K on it. My gas mileage hovers around 19mpg c/h and Im a lead foot. Rebadged Rodeo.. not!